Camping is great for escaping the stresses of our everyday lives, and lots of times you don’t even need to worry about having expensive equipment on hand to do so.
But being able to get a good night’s sleep? Probably one of the most essential camping considerations.
After all, it can mean the difference between a trip full of fun memories and one full of back pain on zero sleep.
If you’re looking to upgrade from a simple sleeping bag, there are lots of options for you, from self-inflating mats and air pads to luxurious (and still affordable) custom easily-packable mattresses.
Types of Camping Mattresses
The most commonly used mattresses for camping include:
- Air Camping Pads
- Foam Pads
- Air Mattresses
But our favorite is the custom option, which we’ll cover below.
Air Camping Pads
Keeping the weight and size low for backpacking can make all the difference, which is why air pads are popular. They’re also reasonably warm, comfortable, and easy on the wallet.
These mats have a layer of compressible foam inside an airtight envelope of fabric, so you can roll it quickly to place in a car or a tent during camping days.
As they’re self-inflating, you don’t need a manual or electric pump. The foam utilized inside is tightly compressed, and when the valve is opened air is immediately pulled inside as a result of the vacuum the compressed foam has created.
Plus, these mats prefer a more reliable PU (polyurethane) coating than standard PVC.
Foam Camping Pad
These foam pads are durable, inexpensive, lightweight, easy to carry, and provide consistent insulation in various conditions. They also don’t require any inflation.
Memory foam mattress pads are an excellent option for people with chronic hip, neck, or back pain, and they typically come in a variety of thicknesses.
However, these mattresses are less comfortable than other manually-inflated mats — they’re thinner, which means less comfort.
As an alternative, open-celled foam pads are comfier, but campers beware. They can also absorb water.
Air Mattress
Air mattresses are a familiar option, and are often the most economical choice. Many even have extra-cushioning properties like anti-decubitus and pressure distribution features.
They typically contain a soft PVC top for sleeping on and a portable, rechargeable pump for inflation. But a mattress that you inflate with air is exactly what it sounds like — comfortable to a point, easy to inflate until it’s not, and also hefty and big.
They can make a great choice for vehicle camping, but not for hiking or backpacking.
The Problem With These Options
While all of these options can work, they’re also not very durable, reliable, or comfortable. They often can’t accommodate specific sleeping needs for those with chronic pain or other health considerations, and their pumps are less than reputable for long-term viability.
We’ve all woken up on the hard ground after our inflatable mattress or pad gave out in the middle of the night.
All that into consideration, having to purchase the same mattress or pad multiple times will add up, quickly making that economical buy a big investment.
Thankfully, there’s an option that maintains affordability and ease, while also improving comfort and durability!
A Custom Camping Mattress
Opting for a custom camping mattress over a regular one offers several advantages.
These mattresses, specifically designed for your needs and preferences, are super cost-effective due to their benefits and improved durability.
They enhance versatility by being foldable and easily movable, so they’re perfect for backpackers, car campers, or both — catering to any situation from road trips to impromptu stargazing.
On top of that, their high-quality USA construction out of USA materials promise a superior sleep experience, letting you comfortably rest wherever your adventure leads you.
The Best Camping Mattress for You
While camping, no one wants to wake up with aches and pains or be kept awake all night by an uncomfortable bed. Thankfully, there are lots of options out there to fit any budget, preference, or need.
And that includes custom ones!
